Gary Hart who was a United States Senator from Colorado from 1975-87 and the frontrunner for a while in 1988 for the Democratic nomination for POTUS turns 76 today. Gary Hart in 1988 seemed like the man to beat until he beat himself. There had always been rumours that Hart was involved in relationships with women other than his wife. He even went as far as challenging the media to find something. “Follow me around. I don’t care. I’m serious. If anybody wants to put a tail on me, go ahead. They’ll be very bored”

In the spring of 1987 he was caught on a boat called “Monkey Business ” with 29 year old Donna Rice. After the story broke Hart dropped out of the race. He would later re-enter but it was far too late. He kind of opened the doors for Bill Clinton who in 1992 battled similar issues but didn’t quit and was elected POTUS.

Gary Hart has remained active but has never run for anything again. He is still married to his wife Lee.

Gary Hart was born Gary Hartpence. He changed his name to Hart in 1961. His first moment in the spotlight was as campaign manager in 1972 for failed Democratic nominee for POTUS George McGovern. He is one of the few featured people in one of my favourite books “Fear and Loathing On The Campaign Trail” by Hunter Thompson -who is still living. Hart was the boy wonder back then. Hart to believe he is closing in on 80.